The SME Programme
General Announcement
The SME Support Programme (ISSP) aims at creating in Lebanon one of the best environments for business in the world. The programme is based in the Ministry of Economy and Trade and is financed jointly by the EU and the government of Lebanon with a budget of €17.8m.
The Programme
Objective is to assist the government in developing and implementing an integrated approach to SME development combining national policy formation, enhancing business development services, and accessing appropriate financial support instruments. It has the following main components:
- An SME Support Unit is being established in the Ministry of Economy and Trade as the driver of government support and policies over the coming decade.
- Policy, legislation and regulation are being formulated and amended that positively enables and stimulate the development of business.
- Services for SMEs: The establishment of four Business Development Centres with an emphasis on incubation of innovative business funded directly by the programme. This component includes also the creation of national SME support services with a network of professional and accredited service providers.
- Finance for SMEs: Facilitation of access by SMEs to risk accepting capital sources including the creation of a joint Guarantee Scheme with KAFALAT.
The ISSP’s approach is based on partnership with the private sector and other stakeholders for developing a momentum for competitive business
Background
Signed on the 23rd of July 2004
Has three parties: the Ministry of Economy and Trade (MOET), the Ministry of Industry and the European Union
The Programme has been operational since April 2005
An SME Unit at the MOET has been created- formed on Sept. 1st 2005
The EU programme to end on the 31st of Dec. 2007
SME Support Unit
SME Policy, Legislations and Regulations
Services for SMEs
Finance for SMEs
Reports